PUZZLE FOR CREATING AN ASSEMBLED TARGET OBJECT, COMPUTER SIMULATION, COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]This claims priority to DE 10 2025 100 472.2 filed on 8 Jan. 2025, which is incorporated in its entirety herein.

CROSS-REFERENCES

[0002]Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0003]Not applicable.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISK

[0004]Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005]The invention relates to a puzzle, for example a puzzle having a plurality of puzzle pieces and for creating a target object assembled from the plurality of puzzle pieces on a base.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006]Puzzles are known and are very popular among different age groups. They serve both for entertainment and for promoting cognitive, motor and visual skills.

[0007]A puzzle typically consists of a multiplicity of puzzle pieces which have to be brought into a specific arrangement in order to form therefrom an assembled target object.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008]The invention is based on the object of providing solutions in relation to puzzles which are characterized by improved properties with regard to handling, assembly and diversity of the target object. A further object is to enable increased user-friendliness and to indicate technical improvements and/or functional extensions. In particular, disadvantages of the prior art are intended to be avoided or at least substantially reduced.

[0009]The invention is defined by the features specified in the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are specified in the dependent claims, in the description and in the drawings, which in each case individually or in combination can represent an aspect of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010]The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the description, explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. The embodiments illustrated herein are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown, wherein:

[0011]FIG. 1 is a target object assembled from a plurality of puzzle pieces in a perspective view together with a single puzzle piece of the target object, according to an example embodiment;

[0012]FIG. 2A-B is a base for receiving a target object in a plan view (A) and in a side view with the target object (B), according to an example embodiment;

[0013]FIG. 3 is a corner region of an assembled target object formed by a puzzle piece, according to an example embodiment.

[0014]Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views of the drawings. The figures are drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015]In particular, the object is achieved by a puzzle for creating a target object assembled from a plurality of puzzle pieces on a base in a height direction and two width directions, such as a pyramid or cuboid, the puzzle comprising the plurality of puzzle pieces. In particular, each of the plurality of puzzle pieces has at least one contact section. In particular, in each case two or more of the plurality of puzzle pieces are provided with mutually corresponding contact sections which, in the assembled target object, lie against one another over an area. In particular, it is provided that the mutually corresponding contact sections are, among all contact sections, in each case uniquely three-dimensionally shaped and/or that the plurality of puzzle pieces comprise a proportion of 50%, 70%, 90% or more of puzzle pieces which are uniquely three-dimensionally shaped relative to one another. In particular, the plurality of puzzle pieces are configured such that, when the mutually corresponding contact sections bear against one another over an area, the puzzle pieces are constrained in position relative to one another at least along the two width directions and/or are form-lockingly engaged with one another.

[0016]In other words, for example, a three-dimensional puzzle is proposed whose puzzle pieces have a three-dimensional shape, in particular a substantially complex three-dimensional shape, and are configured for areal contact with one another. The puzzle pieces can wedge or hook into one another and/or mutually block or fix one another, such that the puzzle is stable in the correctly assembled state and typically is unstable in an incorrectly assembled state and/or the puzzle pieces do not bear against one another over an area. At least half of all puzzle pieces has a unique shape among all puzzle pieces and/or all abutting surfaces or surface pairs of the puzzle pieces are unique in their shape.

[0017]One idea is that each puzzle piece is placed from above and that a correctly placed puzzle piece is not moveable sideways. A geometric configuration of the puzzle pieces and/or of the corresponding contact sections is therefore in particular such that all puzzle pieces can be placed along the height direction or “from above”. It is preferably the case that each puzzle piece is always placed only from above and that no puzzle piece ever has to be inserted/placed from the side or in a width direction in order to assemble the target object. For example, the plurality of puzzle pieces can be configured such that the assembled target object is to be created from bottom to top and/or such that, when assembling the target object, each puzzle piece is placeable along the height direction, in particular exclusively along or parallel to the height direction and/or without movement in one or both of the two width directions, on the base or on puzzle pieces already placed, in particular is to be placed there. In particular, it can be provided that puzzle pieces must be placed on one another or brought together in the height direction so that the corresponding contact sections come into contact.

[0018]For example, the assembled target object is subdivided into the plurality of puzzle pieces. It can be understood that the plurality of puzzle pieces are fragments from which the target object can be assembled or created by assembling. Logically, fragments in the correct assembled configuration bear against one another at corresponding contact sections or at their fracture surfaces.

[0019]For example, the puzzle is designed as a gravity-assisted stable puzzle. Gravity acts at least substantially along the height direction or transverse to the base. In the width directions, the puzzle pieces are, in the assembled target object, fundamentally sufficiently fixed to one another by positive engagement such that small impulses or vibrations would not cause the puzzle to fall apart. By contrast, in the hypothetical absence of gravity or when the assembled target object is tilted, the stability would be at risk because puzzle pieces could separate from one another. Even if the assembled target object may be a symmetrical cube, it is, in practice according to the configuration proposed here, regularly the case that the cube can be built starting from a specific cube face, but not necessarily from several or all cube faces.

[0020]For example, the invention implements the concept that the target object is to be assembled from a set of shattered individual parts. Shattered individual parts are typically uniquely shaped such that, in most cases, each individual part will have only a single, specific location in the target object. This specific location has to be found. This makes the puzzle particularly tricky, exciting and challenging.

[0021]Preferably, the shape of each puzzle piece or each element shape occurs only once. This helps ensure that puzzle pieces inherently have unique positions which must be discovered during assembly.

[0022]The height direction and the width directions in particular extend perpendicular to one another or span three directions orthogonal to one another. The height direction preferably corresponds at least substantially to the direction of gravity. The base is, for example, an at least substantially horizontal surface, for example a table surface or the like.

[0023]It is possible that the direction of gravity does not exactly correspond to the height direction or corresponds thereto only substantially, for example if the base is inclined. In practice, bases are rarely ideally horizontal. For example, the target object can also be created by assembling the plurality of puzzle pieces when a deviation between the direction of gravity and the height direction or an inclination of the base of at most 1 degree or at most 2 degrees or at most 5 degrees or at most 10 degrees is present. In other words, the target object can be inclined relative to the direction of gravity correspondingly without its stability being significantly at risk.

[0024]The puzzle pieces are, for example, compact individual parts which can be placed against one another in order, together and with correct assembly, in particular arrangement and relative position, to form the target object. The target object is essentially the construct that can be formed or built or assembled from the puzzle pieces and of which each puzzle piece can fill a portion.

[0025]The contact sections can also be understood as fracture surfaces or contact surfaces which can extend in various ways transversely or obliquely through the target object. In particular, each puzzle piece has at least one contact section or a contact surface. A contact section can be very complex or uniquely shaped, as fracture surfaces of shattered objects known from practice can also be. It is to be understood that contact sections which belong together or match one another can bear against one another substantially over their full area. When all puzzle pieces are correctly assembled to form the target object, all contact sections that belong together bear against one another at least in pairs partially or over their full area. In this case, more than two contact sections can also bear against one another, for example when the “ramification” of the fracture surfaces is configured in a complex manner and extends in multiple and/or highly branched fashion through the target object. For example, two or more contact sections on one puzzle piece are separated from one another by body edges and/or substantially continuous lines and/or by a different orientation.

[0026]Each puzzle piece generally has at least one contact section or a plurality thereof. Accordingly, for example, at least as many contact sections are provided as there are puzzle pieces. By virtue of mutually corresponding contact sections being uniquely three-dimensionally shaped among all contact sections, there is generally only one way to correctly bring the contact sections together. In other words, at least half of all contact sections from all contact sections is unique in terms of shape or topography. The uniqueness relates, for example, to the configuration or shape of contact sections. For example, the contact sections with three-dimensional shape are configured deviating from a planar shape. A kind of key-lock principle is implemented which permits only a unique assembly.

[0027]By providing a proportion of 50% or more of puzzle pieces that are uniquely three-dimensionally shaped relative to one another, there is generally at least a limited number of possibilities to correctly bring the puzzle pieces together. In other words, at least half of all puzzle pieces from all puzzle pieces is unique in terms of shape or topography. In this respect, it is possible that multiple puzzle pieces exist in duplicate. This can influence the degree of difficulty. For example, there may be uniform corner pieces or edge pieces which, ultimately, can also positively influence the aesthetic impression and the production costs.

[0028]By virtue of the plurality of puzzle pieces being configured such that, when the mutually corresponding contact sections bear against one another over an area, the puzzle pieces are constrained in position relative to one another at least along the two width directions and/or are form-lockingly engaged with one another, the stability of the assembled target object is ensured. In other words, for example, the plurality of puzzle pieces mutually fix one another and cannot be moved horizontally out of the target object. It generally also requires a movement in the height direction in order to separate corresponding contact sections in the assembled target object from one another, from which the stability essentially results. The positional fixing or positive locking means, for example, that correctly or appropriately arranged puzzle pieces in the assembled target object mutually wedge or block one another. For example, it is not possible to pull a puzzle piece out of the target object parallel to a width direction without being blocked by at least one further puzzle piece. This can make it possible, for example, that slight vibrations or impulses in the width directions cannot easily cause the puzzle to fall apart.

[0029]Corresponding contact sections can be formed, at least in regions, negatively or in mirror-image fashion relative to one another in order to bear against one another over an area.

[0030]In particular, some or all of the puzzle pieces each have an identification feature. The respective puzzle piece can be identified by way of the identification feature. Via the identification, it is possible to assign solution hints. For example, an instruction manual of the puzzle provides solution hints that can be associated with the identification features.

[0031]The puzzle is in particular a three-dimensional puzzle. A three-dimensional puzzle can be provided, for example, by subdivision of a target object or target body, typically but not necessarily a solid body, by way of simple or complex cuts through the body geometry. Essentially, no forces act on the assembled puzzle in the width directions or X and X directions, whereas gravity acts with respect to the height direction or Z direction. Gravity can have both a stabilizing and a destabilizing effect on the puzzle or the puzzle pieces.

[0032]Against this background, the puzzle or the assembled target object can fundamentally assume the following three stability states: stable, latently unstable, and unstable or manifestly unstable.

[0033]The puzzle, more precisely the assembled target object, is for example stable if—in particular while disregarding static and/or sliding friction between puzzle pieces—even arbitrarily small impulses along the width directions or X and/or X directions do not cause puzzle pieces to change their respective position such that the target object “breaks” or falls apart or the puzzle pieces leave their position(s) under gravity.

[0034]The puzzle, more precisely the assembled target object, is for example unstable or manifestly unstable if, when assembling the puzzle pieces at their respective correct place, individual puzzle pieces—in particular while disregarding static and/or sliding friction between puzzle pieces—change their respective position solely due to the directly acting gravity and, in particular as a result thereof or due to gravity, the target object “breaks” or falls apart. This is easy to imagine in the case of a planar cut through a cube extending obliquely with respect to the base, in which subsequently the upper part of the two cube parts, with gravity assistance, slides away relative to the lower part of the two cube parts.

[0035]The puzzle, more precisely the assembled target object, is for example latently unstable if, after assembling all puzzle pieces at the respective correct place, a “collapse” or falling apart of the target object only does not occur because no vibrations, impulses and/or minimal forces arise along the width directions or X and/or X directions. However, arbitrarily small such vibrations etc. would cause puzzle pieces to change their respective position so that puzzle pieces move. This is easy to imagine in the case of a cut through a cube extending horizontally relative to the base, in which subsequently the upper part of the two cube parts rests immovably on the lower part of the two cube parts (and thus does not slide away relative to the lower part of the two cube parts), but, in the event of a small vibration etc. in the width directions or X and/or X directions, would move.

[0036]It is proposed, for example, that an assembled target object is subdivided into the plurality of puzzle pieces on the basis of stable subdivisions. Unstable and latently unstable subdivisions are preferably to be avoided or excluded. In this regard, it should be pointed out that the target object itself is intended to be stably assembled, but the stability during assembly to form the target object or the stability with respect to individual arrangements of puzzle pieces may indeed (temporarily) be latently unstable or unstable; ultimately, the interaction of all puzzle pieces to form the assembled target object remedies these (temporary) local instabilities.

[0037]In a more difficult embodiment of the puzzle, it is possible that incorrect puzzle pieces or false puzzle pieces are provided which are not part of the plurality of puzzle pieces. The false puzzle pieces can, in their shape, resemble the plurality of puzzle pieces or be similar thereto and optionally also have apparent visible section(s), contact section(s) and/or base section(s). However, it is preferably the case that the false puzzle pieces do not have corresponding contact sections and/or do not have visible sections and/or base sections as the plurality of puzzle pieces does, such that they cannot contribute to the assembled target object in this respect. In other words, false puzzle pieces are supplied which “remain” in the assembled target object or are not to be used.

[0038]In a further more difficult embodiment of the puzzle, it is possible that two or more puzzle pieces must first be combined or assembled or joined together as a subassembly before the thus formed larger puzzle piece or the subassembly can then be placed on puzzle pieces already assembled. For example, this is conceivable for the case in which otherwise a puzzle piece would not be held or supported at all or could no longer be placed subsequently.

[0039]The plurality of puzzle pieces can each have an at least regionally irregularly shaped or three-dimensionally complex and/or at least regionally planar and/or curved surface as the contact section. The contact section can comprise projections, bulges, steps, pins, irregularities and/or recesses or the like. For example, the contact section is formed as a fracture-surface-like surface which is typically characterized by its uniqueness. It is also possible that a contact section is shaped differently in regions. In principle, all shapes are conceivable which can result from a “shattering” of the target object.

[0040]The plurality of puzzle pieces can be formed free of clamping and/or plug connectors. In particular, the plurality of puzzle pieces are not building blocks of the clamping type. In particular, the plurality of puzzle pieces do not have clamping building blocks. The plurality of puzzle pieces, for example, do not have coupling means or connectors. The absence of clamping and/or plug connectors is surprisingly advantageous because, for example, production costs and wear phenomena on the puzzle pieces can be reduced and the search for corresponding contact sections becomes more cognitively challenging.

[0041]It may be the case that each puzzle piece only ever has to be placed and never has to be plugged or clamped. The placing of the puzzle pieces preferably takes place with no or at most minimal application of force. For example, no clamping and/or plug connections have to be created.

[0042]Some or all of the plurality of puzzle pieces can be formed free of holes and/or openings. Preferably, it is provided that the plurality of puzzle pieces hold together when or by being placed in a correct sequence, wherein there can be one or more correct sequences, but in any case only a limited number. For example, this is possible in that the puzzle pieces are shaped such that gravity essentially suffices, after placing a respective puzzle piece, to hold it firmly in its position. Essentially, puzzle pieces can wedge with one another. For example, the puzzle pieces can be held together exclusively by gravity.

[0043]It is possible that puzzle pieces must be placed in the correct or a specific sequence in order to be able to lie stably. For example, it may be that some puzzle pieces require the presence of other puzzle pieces in order not to slip or slide away. Logically, it follows therefrom that the direction of gravity can have an influence on which sequence of placing puzzle pieces is provided. For example, given a certain inclination of the base, i.e. when the base does not extend perpendicular to the direction of gravity, a different sequence of placing puzzle pieces may be required compared to a non-inclined base. The inclination has an influence on the positional fixing or positive locking of individual puzzle pieces in the width directions.

[0044]In particular, the puzzle is configured such that the puzzle pieces are held together or hold together with gravity assistance. Preferably, the contact sections are shaped such that bringing into contact for areal abutment and separating corresponding contact sections is possible substantially by a translational movement, optionally with a rotational component, of the puzzle pieces relative to one another. In other words, the contact sections should not be so complex or complicated in shape, for example have undercuts, that would make bringing into contact or separating impossible. For example, there is the exception here that prior joining of some puzzle pieces of the plurality of puzzle pieces to form a subassembly is provided in order then to place this subassembly.

[0045]A portion or fraction of the plurality of puzzle pieces can each have at least one visible section. The visible section can lie on the outside in the assembled target object. A further portion or fraction of the plurality of puzzle pieces preferably does not have any section lying on the outside in the assembled target object. The visible sections can form outer surfaces or visible surfaces of the target object.

[0046]The plurality of puzzle pieces can be configured to adhere magnetically to one another. For example, (only) corresponding contact sections adhere to one another or click together magnetically. In particular if the puzzle pieces are not held together overall magnetically, a magnetic core can be installed in each puzzle piece which makes it possible, by means of a rod with a magnet or a magnetic rod with an optionally activatable magnetic tip, to “fish” or remove puzzle pieces that have been placed incorrectly or correctly again without jeopardizing the remaining overall structure or the existing part of the assembled target object.

[0047]It is possible that a/the magnetic rod or another tool is provided, in particular which is electrically operated and/or battery-operated. The magnetic rod or the tool can be configured to make an identification feature of a puzzle piece visible or to indicate it. The identification feature can be unique within the puzzle or be configured such that it is fundamentally unique also among multiple puzzles. The identification feature can comprise at least one number, one letter, one word, one logo, one symbol (for example triangles, squares, etc.) and/or the like. The identification feature can comprise information relating to the arrangement or placement information of the respective puzzle piece; for example, this can be information relating to the orientation of the puzzle piece, for example an arrow. The identification feature can be present on and/or retrievable from and/or readable from a chip or an electrical/electronic, optionally passive, component. For example, the magnetic rod or the tool serves to read out the chip/component, in particular in a contactless or contact-based manner.

[0048]It is possible that some or all of the puzzle pieces are labeled or marked with the identification feature. The identification feature can be made visible, for example, under UV light. The magnetic rod or the tool can be configured to provide light, in particular UV light. For example, the magnetic rod or the tool can light up at the push of a button. In this way, a solution hint relating to the correct arrangement of the puzzle pieces can optionally be retrieved.

[0049]The plurality of puzzle pieces can, in particular for detecting relative positions of the plurality of puzzle pieces, each have a visible and/or readable identification feature, in particular as the identification feature mentioned above. The plurality of puzzle pieces can, in particular for detecting relative positions of the plurality of puzzle pieces, be configured for communication with one another. It is possible that the assembled target object indicates correct assembly or correct assembling. For example, when the puzzle pieces are partially or completely correctly assembled, a circuit can be closed, whereas, with incorrect assembly of the puzzle pieces, the circuit cannot be closed. It is possible that the puzzle pieces interact inductively with one another and/or come into electrical contact in order to realize the aforementioned function. For example, the target object or one or more or all puzzle pieces light up when the target object is correctly assembled.

[0050]The plurality of puzzle pieces can be formed with or from a polymer composition, in particular at least regionally transparent, translucent and/or non-transparent, or from such a plastic. The polymer composition is in particular configured as a thermoplastic and/or thermosetting material. The polymer composition can comprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). ABS is characterized by high strength, stiffness and color brilliance. The polymer composition can comprise polycarbonate (PC), for example for increased impact resistance and transparency, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), for example as at least partially recyclable or recycled material, polypropylene (PP), for example because of its flexibility and cost-efficiency, polyamide (PA), for example for improving abrasion resistance and strength in mechanically stressed components, polyethylene (PE) and/or plant-based bio-polyethylene (bio-PE), for example for flexible or sustainable applications, and/or polystyrene (PS), for example as a cost-effective alternative for components with lower mechanical requirements. The selection of the polymer composition is made taking into account specific application requirements such as mechanical load-bearing capacity, color brilliance and sustainability. [3]

[0051]The plurality of puzzle pieces can be formed with or from a metallic material, mineral material and/or wood material. As metallic material, for example, an aluminum alloy, copper alloy, titanium alloy and/or steel or a steel alloy are conceivable. Metallic materials can be provided with an attractive matte or glossy surface and are highly wear-resistant, such that the puzzle is durable. As mineral material, for example, materials based on quartz, granite, marble and/or other natural and/or synthetic minerals are conceivable. These can be present either as solid material or in the form of composite materials, such as mineral material with a polymer matrix. Mineral materials feel very natural and are generally quite corrosion-resistant. The production of the contact sections may possibly be simplified in the case of mineral materials because mineral materials can usually be broken such that real fracture surfaces can be used as contact surfaces. As wood material, for example, plywood, fiberboard or fiberwood (such as MDF or HDF), particleboard and/or wood-plastic composite materials (WPC) can be used. Wood is very sustainable. The puzzle can be produced using untreated wood and/or recycled wood in combination with binders or additives in order to optimize the mechanical and aesthetic properties. Also in the case of wood, it may be possible to work with breaking the wood to create fracture surfaces as contact sections.

[0052]The individual puzzle pieces are in particular shaped such that the target object can be produced or assembled by placing all puzzle pieces, in particular in a defined sequence. In particular, the assembled target object is to be created or built from bottom to top.

[0053]Some of the plurality of puzzle pieces can have or comprise base sections. The assembled target object can have a base surface formed from the base sections and extending in particular along the width directions. The base surface is preferably at least substantially planar. The base surface can be at least partially curved and/or angularly bounded. Some or all of the contact sections can extend at least regionally obliquely or transversely to the base surface. For example, lower puzzle pieces or the puzzle pieces with base sections are configured such that they mutually fix one another in such a way that lateral slipping of the outwardly directed or outer puzzle pieces, that is to say, for example, those with base section and visible section, is excluded. For example, it is possible that puzzle pieces with corresponding contact sections engage one another in a hook-like manner.

[0054]In a particular embodiment of the puzzle, subdivision of the assembled target object into the plurality of puzzle pieces is carried out such that not only one side of the target object can serve as a base surface, but that at least one further side can serve as a base surface. This means that the puzzle can be placed or assembled on two or more different base surfaces which can be selected alternatively at the start of assembly.

[0055]In particular against the background described above, some of the plurality of puzzle pieces can have or comprise further base sections. The assembled target object can have a further base surface formed from the further base sections and extending in particular along the width directions. The further base surface is preferably at least substantially planar. The further base surface can be at least partially curved and/or angularly bounded. Some or all of the contact sections can extend at least regionally obliquely or transversely to the further base surface. The base surface and the further base surface preferably extend or are oriented away from one another and/or transversely to one another.

[0056]The puzzle can comprise or have a base for receiving the plurality of puzzle pieces. The base can be configured to surround the base surface of the assembled target object. Alternatively or additionally, the base can be configured to optionally surround the base surface or the further base surface of the assembled target object. The base can be configured as a frame in order to assemble the target object therein. Thus, it is, for example, not necessary that the puzzle pieces with the base sections engage in one another. The frame provides stability. [4]

[0057]The plurality of puzzle pieces can each and/or the base can comprise or have at least one lighting means.

[0058]The base and/or a special or electrified puzzle piece can have a power supply connection and/or an energy store, in particular to operate the at least one lighting means and/or to supply the plurality of puzzle pieces. For example, a USB connection, in particular a USB-C connection, can be provided as the connection. It is possible that the base supplies the puzzle pieces or the electrified puzzle piece supplies other puzzle pieces with electrical energy in order to realize illumination, communication, identification, magnetism, indication of correct/incorrect assembly and/or the like.

[0059]Preferably, a communication interface, in particular connected to the connection and/or integrated into the base, is provided for communication with an external terminal, for example a smartphone. The communication interface can be supplied via the connection and/or the energy store.

[0060]The base and/or the terminal and/or the communication interface and/or the electrified puzzle piece can be configured to enable additional functions. Illumination or the lighting means can in particular be switched on or off automatically. Magnetic functions can in particular be switched on or off automatically. Light-emitting diodes can be provided and in particular be switched on or off automatically, which serve for optionally temporary marking of puzzle pieces, for example light-emitting diodes lighting “red” or “green” for incorrectly or correctly placed puzzle pieces. A counting function can be implemented in order to determine a number and/or ratio of correctly or incorrectly placed puzzle pieces. A countdown can be implemented in order to support time-based aspects of the game.

[0061]A correctness check of the “construction progress” or a check of the correct assembly of the puzzle pieces can be implemented. A random number generator can be implemented as a dice substitute. A module for outputting instructions for placing a next suitable or correct puzzle piece can be implemented in order to assemble further mutually corresponding puzzle pieces; for example, an instruction can be that a puzzle piece is to be placed that is configured with at least three colors, in order thus to narrow down the selection. It is possible that an interface to an internet portal is implemented which provides further community functions, for example a ranking list or the like. It is possible that AI-assisted recognition of puzzle pieces is implemented, in particular camera-based recognition, in order to provide solution aids for a specific puzzle piece.

[0062]It is possible that the base and/or the terminal and/or the communication interface and/or the electrified puzzle piece is configured to count a score which corresponds to correctly and/or incorrectly assembled puzzle pieces. The score can be counted automatically. In this way, for example, a game with the puzzle can be provided which can be played with one or two or more players. It is possible that the points are awarded as a function of a time duration required for placing and/or of an identification feature determining a degree of difficulty of placing and/or of a randomly determined factor.

[0063]The puzzle pieces can be varied in terms of their visual design, i.e. their color and/or printing. Colors and/or markings can be provided. In particular when the puzzle pieces are non-translucent or non-transparent, different colors can have a technical function. The technical function lies, for example, in recognizability and assignability of puzzle pieces. Colors may include, for example, red, yellow, blue, green, orange, purple/violet, pink, brown, black, white and/or gray, and optionally beige, turquoise, pink, gold and/or silver. A marking can be designed analogously to the identification feature, in particular in a visible form detectable without UV light.

[0064]It is possible that colors and/or markings are represented in the form of color gradients and/or brightness gradients such that, for example, puzzle pieces with a darker red are to be placed “further down” and with a darker blue “further to the right”, and puzzle pieces with a lighter red “further up” and with a lighter blue “further to the left”, and so on.

[0065]For example, a marking is provided as an image or graphic. It is also possible that an arrangement of specifically colored visible sections results in a pattern becoming recognizable. Visible surfaces can reproduce images; depending on the image, this can increase or decrease the complexity or difficulty of assembling the target object to different degrees. Highly abstract images (or patterns) can also increase the **complexity**. Highly figurative images can reduce it. It is conceivable that the visible surfaces each reproduce the same image, that all visible surfaces have different images, and/or that all visible surfaces exhibit natural image progressions such as wood grain, stone structures, etc.

[0066]In one possible embodiment, the contact sections, the visible sections and/or the base sections are uniformly colored and/or marked.

[0067]Each contact section/base section/visible section can have the same color or marking. The contact sections and/or base sections/visible sections can be colored/marked differently from other sections of the puzzle pieces. Preferably, the individual puzzle pieces are uniformly colored or marked in themselves. Preferably, there is essentially only a single uniform coloring or marking for all puzzle pieces, in particular either section-related or relating to the entire puzzle piece.

[0068]All puzzle pieces can be produced in a single color/marking with the exception of the corresponding contact sections, the base sections and/or the visible sections. The outwardly facing sides of the puzzle pieces or of the target object can each have a specific color/marking, in particular in each case, in order to be able to distinguish them.

[0069]For example, the visible sections which, in the assembled target object, lie at least substantially in a common plane can be provided with one of a plurality of colors/markings, whereby differently colored/marked visible surfaces of the target object are formed, while all surfaces within the hollow body, thus usually the contact sections, can have a common color or marking in order to fundamentally distinguish “outside” from “inside” by the resulting contrasts.

[0070]It is possible that corresponding contact sections are colored or marked the same (for example, “red” on “red”) or differently (for example, “red” on “yellow”). It is possible that corresponding contact sections are provided with complementary colors, for example “red” on “green”. Whether colors are “the same” should, in case of doubt, not be determined on the basis of brightness; “light green” or “dark green” can be understood as “green”.

[0071]Preferably, the assembled target object has visible surfaces, in particular formed from the visible sections. The visible surfaces can be differently colored and/or marked. The contact sections and the visible sections and optionally the base sections are preferably differently colored and/or marked. The mutually corresponding contact sections are, for example, identically or complementarily colored and/or marked.

[0072]Preferably, contact sections which face toward the base surface in the assembled target object are colored and/or marked differently from contact sections which do not face toward the base surface in the assembled target object. For example, some sections face downward and some sections face upward, these sections being able to be colored or marked differently from one another. In this way, it is possible to recognize which contact sections are intended to face downward. This serves as a hint for finding the correct arrangement of puzzle pieces.

[0073]The assembled target object is, for example, provided as a solid body and/or has the shape of a solid body. For example, the assembled target object is formed or shaped free of cavities, in particular wherein cavities within the puzzle pieces themselves can be disregarded.

[0074]The assembled target object is, for example, provided as a hollow body and/or has the shape of a hollow body. The assembled target object can have a recess and/or a cavity. For example, the assembled target object is formed or shaped with one or more cavities formed by the arrangement of the puzzle pieces, in particular wherein cavities in the puzzle pieces themselves can be disregarded. The assembled target object may be of hollow configuration and/or have a recess. For example, the assembled target object, in particular in the form of a cube, can have a recess on the top side, for example so that a kind of bowl is created. In the case of a hollow body, a lighting means can be inserted into the cavity, so that—depending on the material—the assembled target object as a whole can be made to glow.

[0075]The assembled target object, in particular as solid body or hollow body, is, for example, a cube, a pyramid, a cuboid, a prism or a cylinder. A triangular or quadrangular or polygonal base surface can be provided. It is possible that the base surface is of symmetrical or asymmetrical design. It is possible that the assembled target object, in particular as a prism, has the form of at least one character or at least one number, for example in the form of or with a letter, a special character, a punctuation mark, a logo, such as a company logo or brand logo, a word, a sentence and/or the like.

[0076]It is also possible that the assembled target object is a prism having an additional shape deviating from the prism, for example a prism with an overhang or bulge, a recess or indentation, a cavity and/or the like.

[0077]The puzzle can have a connecting structure, preferably intended for connecting two target objects. The idea is that a plurality of puzzles or created target objects can be joined together side by side to form something larger. The connecting structure can be provided for connecting the target object to a further target object assembled from a plurality of puzzle pieces in the height direction and the two width directions on the base. The connecting structure can be designed as a bridge element for bearing on and/or connecting to two or more target objects. The bridge element can be provided such that a passage is provided between the target objects and beneath the bridge element. The connecting structure can also extend on the base or above the base. The connecting structure can be single-part or multi-part. The connecting structure may be formed free of clamping and/or plug connectors, for example in the manner in which this can be provided in the case of the plurality of puzzle pieces.

[0078]In particular, a puzzle system can be provided which comprises two or more puzzles, which can be of identical or different design, and preferably comprises the connecting structure. With the two or more puzzles, two or more target objects that are essentially separate from one another can be created. The connecting structure can be used to connect the two or more target objects to one another.

[0079]The connecting structure thus broadens the field of application of the puzzle itself. When a puzzle has been assembled to form the target object or the target object has been created, the use and appeal thereof therefore do not necessarily have to be concluded. Rather, the connecting structure can create a new incentive to create something larger from the actually finished target object. For example, the target objects can be buildings and the larger structure can be a city.

[0080]Although, in particular, a practical or physical implementation of the puzzle is described, it is possible that the puzzle can alternatively or additionally be implemented in digital or computer-implemented, in particular augmented, form. Digital forms of the puzzle can include an app, a video game, a website and/or a computer game. It is possible that, in such embodiments, the puzzle can be essentially identical to the proposals set out above.

[0081]In particular, the invention relates to a computer simulation of a/the puzzle or of a plurality of puzzles. The computer simulation comprises or is, for example, a computer-implemented method. In the computer simulation, the puzzle can be mapped, in particular augmented, at least in part in digital form. The puzzle can be simulated, preferably augmented, on a terminal or computer. Augmenting aims to depict the puzzle embedded in the real world. Augmenting is known in the field of “augmented reality”. The augmenting can be carried out by means of a 3D headset in order to display the puzzle in space for a user wearing the 3D headset. The augmenting can be carried out by means of a screen or display of the terminal which can display the surroundings with an augmented puzzle. The terminal includes, for example, a laptop or notebook, a games console, a television, a smartphone, a tablet, a projector, etc. Movement and/or assembly of the puzzle pieces can be carried out under manual inputs and/or assisted by an input device, for example a computer mouse, keyboard and/or touchscreen.

[0082]The computer simulation can be fully or partially computer-implemented. In other words, the puzzle can be mapped entirely digitally or only partially digitally.

[0083]In the computer simulation, assembly of the target object from the plurality of puzzle pieces can be enabled in digital form. For example, the puzzle is displayed in this way on a screen of a terminal in order to solve it there or in order to assemble the plurality of puzzle pieces to form the target object. In this respect, a digital puzzle can be realized in which a plurality of users, at a single terminal or at a plurality of mutually communicating terminals, can follow and/or participate in creation of a/the target object. It is possible that one/the target object is created by a plurality of users or that a plurality of target objects is/are created by a plurality of users. It is possible that an angle or inclination between the height direction and a/the direction of gravity is adjustable. For example, the angle forms a setting parameter which can influence a degree of difficulty of the puzzle. Essentially, gravity can be altered in a manner deviating from reality. This further creates the possibility of changing the sequence of placing puzzle pieces because the positional fixing or positive locking in the width directions of individual puzzle pieces is thereby influenced.

[0084]The computer simulation can represent a practical aid for creating the target object. In this respect, at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces can be mapped or simulated digitally. The computer simulation can comprise a puzzle that is at least partially computer-implemented or simulated and a puzzle that is at least partially physically present. A transition from the physical puzzle to the at least partially simulated puzzle can be provided, for example in that the at least partially simulated puzzle provides hints as to where further physical puzzle pieces are to be placed. Puzzle pieces that are still missing in the physical puzzle can be augmented.

[0085]For example, a computer program product and/or compiled program code is proposed which, when executed on a terminal or computer, causes the puzzle to be provided in computer-implemented or computer-simulated, in particular augmented, form. The computer simulation can be provided by means of the computer program product, for example on different terminals.

[0086]Within the scope of the disclosure, the abbreviation “resp.” is used as a shortened form of “respectively” and is intended fundamentally to specify alternative, essentially equivalent and/or synonymous features or terms in order to more closely elucidate the concept or meaning of a feature or term usage. “Respectively” and “or” can always be replaced by “and/or”. Optional features, which are those which are disclosed in conjunction with “in particular” , “for example”, “preferably”, “preferred”, “optionally”) “may/can” or the like, can be used individually for further development of the invention.

[0091]In the figures, various embodiments are shown, in which identical reference signs and/or names of features denote identical or at least similar features. The description can therefore be applied analogously between the figures.

[0092]FIG. 1 shows a puzzle 1 for creating a target object 2 assembled from a plurality of puzzle pieces 10 in a height direction Z and two width directions X, Y on a base U. The assembled target object 2 is shown in FIG. 1 and is in the form of a cuboid.

[0093]The puzzle 1 comprises the plurality of puzzle pieces 10. Each of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 has a contact section 12. In each case two or more of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are provided with mutually corresponding contact sections 12 which, in the assembled target object 2, lie against one another over an area. In this respect, in the present case, all corresponding contact sections 12 bear against one another over an area.

[0094]In particular, there is no contact section 12 which does not bear against at least one other contact section 12 over an area. The contact sections 12 are, in principle, concealed in the assembled target object 2.

[0095]The mutually corresponding contact sections 12 are, among all contact sections 12, in each case uniquely three-dimensionally shaped and/or have a unique topography. The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 comprise a proportion of 90% or more of puzzle pieces 10 that are uniquely three-dimensionally shaped relative to one another. More precisely, all puzzle pieces 10 are uniquely three-dimensionally shaped and/or have a unique topography.

[0096]The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are configured such that, when the mutually corresponding contact sections 12 bear against one another over an area, the puzzle pieces 10 are constrained in position relative to one another at least along the two width directions X, Y and/or are form-lockingly engaged with one another.

[0097]The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are shaped such that the assembled target object 2 is to be created from bottom to top. Each puzzle piece 10, when assembling the target object 2, is to be placed exclusively along the height direction Z either on the base U or on one or more puzzle pieces 10 that have already been placed. Each correctly placed puzzle piece 10 is, for example, to be placed only from above and cannot under any circumstances be inserted, i.e. pulled out or pushed in, from the side or along the two width directions X, Y. The puzzle 1 is thus held together by gravity.

[0098]Some of the puzzle pieces 10 extend over corners of the target object 2 and/or provide more than one visible section 14. These puzzle pieces 10 are each shown with dashed lines at the corner. Some puzzle pieces 10 do not extend over corners of the target object 2 but instead adjoin other puzzle pieces 10 at the corners such that their two or more mutually corresponding contact sections 12 meet one another over an area.

[0099]In essence, the target object 2 is shattered into a multiplicity of individual puzzle pieces 10 and the fragments are assembled in the correct sequence or arrangement such that all fracture surfaces bear against one another again over an area.

[0100]In FIG. 1, on the right, a single puzzle piece 10 of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 is further shown, which can or does form a corner of the assembled target object 2 shown on the left in FIG. 1. The single puzzle piece 10 has, for example, four contact sections 12 that are in particular substantially planar, two visible sections 14 that are in particular substantially planar and a base section 16 that is in particular substantially planar. The visible sections 14 and the base section 16 here adjoin one another transversely or perpendicularly and/or in such a way as to form a corner of the target object 2.

[0101]The fact that the contact sections 12 of the single puzzle piece 10 are substantially planar is due to the simplified illustration. Typically, the contact sections 12 are of irregular and/or uneven shape.

[0102]Corresponding contact sections 12 are in particular shaped inversely relative to one another at least in regions.

[0103]The base sections 16 form a base surface 6 of the target object 2 on which the target object 2 is built in the height direction Z in the present case.

[0104]The visible sections 14 form a plurality of visible surfaces 4 of the target object 2. All visible surfaces 4 are arranged transversely or perpendicularly to one another. The visible surface 4 lying at the top in FIG. 1 is arranged parallel to a base surface 6 and can also serve as a further base surface 7, in which case the base surface 6 can then optionally serve as a visible surface 4. In other words, the cuboid can also be built “upside down”.

[0105]The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 each have an at least regionally planar surface as the contact section 12 or contact sections 12. Alternatively or additionally, the contact section 12 can also be curved and/or at least regionally irregularly shaped, for example in the manner of fracture surfaces.

[0106]The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are each formed free of clamping and/or plug connectors. The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 preferably bear loosely against one another.

[0107]The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are each formed free of holes and/or openings. The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are not clamping building blocks.

[0108]A portion of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 each has at least one visible section 14 which lies on the outside in the assembled target object 2. A further portion of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 does not have any section lying on the outside in the assembled target object 2; such puzzle pieces 10 are, for example, inner puzzle pieces 10 which are not visible after assembly of the target object 2.

[0109]Optionally, the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 is at least partially formed to adhere magnetically to one another.

[0110]Optionally, a magnetic rod or a tool is provided, for example in order to “fish” a puzzle piece 10, in particular with magnetic assistance, and/or to read out or make visible identification features of puzzle pieces 10.

[0111]Optionally, the plurality of puzzle pieces 10, in order to detect relative positions of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10, partially or each have a visible and/or readable identification feature and/or are configured for communication with one another.

[0112]The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are formed, by way of example, with or from a polymer composition, in particular at least regionally transparent, translucent and/or non-transparent. For example, the polymer composition is ABS plastic.

[0113]Optionally, the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 are formed with or from a metallic material, mineral material and/or wood material.

[0114]Some of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 can comprise a base section 16 or base sections 16. The assembled target object 2 has a base surface 6 formed from the base sections 16 and extending along the width directions X, Y. The base surface 6 is planar in the present case. The base surface 6 is bounded in the present case in an angular or quadrangular or square manner. The base surface 6 can also be bounded in a curved manner in regions.

[0115]Some or all of the contact sections 12 extend at least in regions obliquely or transversely to the base surface 6.

[0116]The puzzle 1 shown can be assembled in two opposite directions. The base surface 6 lying on the base U in the present case can also face upward in order to assemble the puzzle 1 from an opposite further base surface 7. The puzzle 1 can be assembled stably in both arrangements.

[0117]Some of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 comprise further base sections 17, the assembled target object 2 having the further base surface 7 formed from the further base sections 17, which is quadrangular or square in the present case, the further base surface 7 being planar, some or all of the contact sections 12 extending at least in regions obliquely or transversely to the further base surface 7, and the base surface 6 and the further base surface 7 being oriented away from one another. In the present case, the base surfaces 6, 7 are arranged in parallel.

[0118]The puzzle 1 has a base 20 shown in FIG. 2A for receiving the plurality of puzzle pieces 10. The base 20 is configured to surround the base surface 6 of the assembled target object 2. In particular, the base 20 is configured to optionally surround the base surface 6 or the further base surface 7 of the assembled target object 2.

[0119]FIG. 2B, in a side view of one of a plurality of visible surfaces 4 formed from visible sections 14, shows that the puzzle 1 in the assembled state or the assembled target object 2 is received and surrounded in the base 20. The target object 2 is built on a base plate of the base 20 which is provided with a frame. In this respect, the base can comprise the base plate and/or the frame.

[0120]It is also possible for the target object 2 to be built directly on the base U and for the base 20 to comprise at least one frame and preferably no base plate. In particular, the base 20 can have a passage or receptacle for receiving the target object 2.

[0121]The plurality of puzzle pieces 10 and/or the base 20 can each comprise at least one lighting means. The base 20 has a connection 22, for example a USB-C connection, for power supply and an energy store 24 or an accumulator, for example to operate the at least one lighting means and/or to supply the plurality of puzzle pieces 10.

[0122]In the present case, a communication interface 26 connected to the connection 22 and/or integrated into the base 20 is provided for communication with an external terminal, for example a computer, smartphone and/or tablet.

[0123]Several or all of the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 can be provided with a respective identification feature. It is possible for the identification feature to be able to be made visible and/or read out under UV light, for example from the magnetic rod or tool.

[0124]The contact sections 12 can be uniformly colored and/or marked, for example in order to recognize them and distinguish them from other sections 14, 16.

[0125]The visible sections 14 can be uniformly colored and/or marked. For example, differently colored visible surfaces 4 can thereby be provided.

[0126]The base sections 16 can be uniformly colored and/or marked. For example, the base surface 6 can thereby be recognized.

[0127]The assembled target object 2 has the visible surfaces 4 formed from the visible sections 14, the visible surfaces 4 being differently colored and/or marked. For example, the visible surfaces 4 are printed with patterns, color gradients or the like.

[0128]It is also possible for the contact sections 12 and the visible sections 14 and the base sections 16 to be differently colored and/or marked.

[0129]The mutually corresponding contact sections 12 can be identically or complementarily colored and/or marked.

[0130]In the assembled target object 2, contact sections 12 facing toward the base surface 6 or toward the further base surface 7 are colored and/or marked differently from contact sections 12 which, in the assembled target object 2, do not face toward the base surface 6 or the further base surface 7.

[0131]The assembled target object 2 is provided as a solid body and, in the present case, has no recess and no cavity. Apart therefrom, however, the plurality of puzzle pieces 10 can be of hollow configuration in themselves, for example in the case of the use of injection-molded puzzle pieces 10.

[0132]The puzzle 1 can additionally have a connecting structure which is provided for connecting the target object 2 to a further target object 2 assembled from a plurality of puzzle pieces in the height direction Z and the two width directions X, Y on the base U. The connecting structure can be designed as a bridge element for bearing on the two target objects 2.

[0133]FIG. 3 shows a corner region of an only partially shown assembled target object formed from a puzzle piece 10′. In the corner region, three visible surfaces, for example, meet perpendicularly.

[0134]The puzzle piece 10′ in the corner region adjoins, with three contact sections 12, contact sections 12 of surrounding puzzle pieces 10. It can be seen that directions R1 and R2 formed between corresponding contact sections 12 have components opposite the height direction Z and components along two width directions X, Y. The underside contact section 12 of the puzzle piece 10′ is, for example, formed at least in regions substantially planar or curved or convex. Simply put, for example, an underside contact section 12 of the puzzle piece 10′ in the corner region is substantially inclined. The puzzle piece 10′ is arranged in an unstable manner.

[0135]In essence, therefore, it cannot be said that the puzzle piece 10′ is configured such that, when the corresponding contact sections 12 bear against one another over an area, the puzzle piece 10′ is constrained in position and/or is form-lockingly engaged with the other puzzle pieces along the width directions X, Y. The puzzle piece 10′ is not only arranged in a latently unstable manner but—disregarding static friction—manifestly unstable.